Largs RNLI rescue five people from yacht

Following a 999 call from a 34-foot sailing yacht reporting their boat had run aground and needed assistance, HM Coastguard requested the launch of the RNLI lifeboat based in Largs.

With pagers sounding across the town the volunteer crew proceeded to the lifeboat station where, prior to launching the lifeboat, they held their SMEAC briefing, discussing the specifics of the shout, including tidal state, weather conditions and requirements for specialist equipment such as the salvage pump. SMEAC briefings are held prior to every lifeboat launch where the volunteer crew discus the situation, mission, execution, administration and communication.

With a clear plan for the shout the shore crew volunteers launched the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat Susan Margaret Forsbrey into strong south-westerly winds and moderate sea conditions, where having received further updates from HM Coastguard the lifeboat made best speed to the given location on Brigurd Spit.

The passage to Brigurd Spit was challenging even for the highly trained volunteers onboard the lifeboat with weather and sea state conditions deteriorating. With the use of a dipping pole to monitor water depth, positioning a volunteer crew member in the bow of the lifeboat to keep watch and under the power of just one of the lifeboat engines, progress toward the casualty vessel was slow but safe. Thankfully the crew were able to successfully navigate a path through the surrounding rocks which were breaking the surface of the water surrounding them.

On approach to the casualty vessel the volunteer crew could hear the yacht creaking, grinding and thumping onto the nearby rocks. All five of the people on board the casualty vessel were wearing lifejackets and were safe and well, however clearly they were all shaken by the ongoing incident.

Volunteer crew from Largs lifeboat assisted the passengers to move from the casualty vessel onto the safety of the lifeboat, one by one, ensuring they were each seated and secure. The lifeboat crew also aided in placing of the anchor of the yacht in deeper water to prevent the casualty vessel from being swept further onto the rocks.

With the passengers from the casualty vessel safely on board Largs lifeboat proceeded to Largs Yacht Haven where the casualties were handed over into the care of Largs Coastguard Rescue Team.

With all of those involved safely onshore, Largs lifeboat was stood down by HM Coastguard, and was able to return to the lifeboat station where it was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service.

Speaking of the incident Angus Fergusson, volunteer helm at Largs lifeboat station, said; ‘Prior to going afloat we would always recommend you check the local weather and tide times, plan your passage and check the relevant nautical charts for the area in detail.

‘In a coastal, beach or cliff emergency you should always dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.’

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Claire McRae, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Scotland, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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